As I watched those vibrant maraschino cherries tumble into the mixing bowl, I felt a rush of excitement—the promise of deliciousness! These Maraschino Cherry Cookies are not just an eye-catching dessert; they’re an easy, delightful treat perfect for both festive gatherings and cozy afternoons at home. With a soft and chewy texture paired with the sweet pop of cherries, they become a favorite for everyone from kids to adults. The best part? You can customize them with fun add-ins like candy canes or white chocolate chips for a unique twist. Ready to take a bite out of the holiday baking spirit? Let’s dive into this colorful cookie adventure!
Why Are Maraschino Cherry Cookies a Must-Try?
Vibrant Color: The vivid red cherries make these cookies visually stunning and festive, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Easy to Make: This recipe involves simple steps and common ingredients, making it ideal, even for novice bakers.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in crushed candy canes or white chocolate chips for a personalized flair!
Chewy Goodness: Expect a delightful blend of soft, chewy cookie textures bursting with fruity flavor that everyone will adore.
Crowd Favorite: These cookies are as appealing to kids as they are to adults, making them a guaranteed hit during any occasion!
Maraschino Cherry Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful cookies!
For the Cookie Base
- 8 tbsp butter – Provides richness and moisture. Use unsalted butter for more control over saltiness.
- 1/2 cup white sugar – Adds sweetness. Can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – Contributes moisture and a slight caramel flavor. Light or dark brown sugar works; dark adds more depth.
- 1 egg – Acts as a binder and enriches the texture. Flax egg can be used for a vegan option.
- 1 tsp vanilla – Enhances overall flavor. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste.
- 1/8 tsp red food coloring (optional) – Adds a vibrant color to the cookies. Gel food coloring provides a more intense hue with less liquid.
- 1 1/2 cups flour – Provides structure to the cookies. All-purpose flour is standard; gluten-free flour blends can work as substitutes.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent. Do not substitute with baking powder without adjusting for acidity.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. Sea salt can be used for a subtle crunch.
- 16 oz maraschino cherries (drained) – Adds chewiness and bursts of fruity flavor. Ensure they are drained well to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
Optional Variations
- Crushed candy canes – Perfect for a festive twist!
- White chocolate chips – Adds a touch of sweetness for an indulgent treat.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maraschino Cherry Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for baking your Maraschino Cherry Cookies perfectly! Make sure to give it about 10–15 minutes to reach the correct temperature while you prepare the cookie dough.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a microwave-safe dish, melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Heat it in short intervals of 20–30 seconds, checking frequently until fully melted. Once melted, pour the butter into a medium-sized mixing bowl, allowing it to cool slightly before you add the sugars.
Step 3: Mix the Sugars
Add 1/2 cup of white sugar and 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the bowl with the melted butter. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend the sugars into the butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1–2 minutes. This will ensure your Maraschino Cherry Cookies have a lovely sweetness and moisture.
Step 4: Beat in Egg and Vanilla
Next, crack 1 egg into your sugary butter mixture and pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat the ingredients together until they are fully combined, which should take another minute. If you’d like to add red food coloring for a vibrant touch, mix in 1/8 teaspoon at this stage.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your Maraschino Cherry Cookies soft and chewy.
Step 6: Prepare the Cherries
Drain and slice the 16 ounces of maraschino cherries. Fold these carefully into your cookie dough, distributing them evenly throughout. This is where the fun begins, as the cherries will add delightful bursts of flavor and vibrant color to your cookies.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, shape the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. You should have a colorful array of cookie dough ready for baking!
Step 8: Flatten the Cookies
Gently flatten each dough ball with your palm or the bottom of a glass, creating a more uniform shape for your Maraschino Cherry Cookies. This step is essential to achieve a chewy center and slightly crisp edges when they bake.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they will puff up a little during baking but will settle as they cool down.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely for at least 30 minutes. Get ready to taste your delightful Maraschino Cherry Cookies—perfectly chewy and bursting with flavor!
Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Cookies
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Drain Cherries Well: Ensure maraschino cherries are well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can change the cookie’s texture.
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Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the dough once flour is added to maintain that soft and chewy consistency in your cookies.
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Press Before Baking: Flatten each dough ball slightly before placing it in the oven; this helps the cookies spread evenly while baking.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to add variations like crushed peppermint or white chocolate chips, but remember not to overwhelm the base flavor of the maraschino cherries.
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Storage Tip: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to retain their delightful chewiness.
Maraschino Cherry Cookies: Creative Twists
Feel free to explore exciting variations that will make your Maraschino Cherry Cookies uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil for a completely dairy-free option while keeping the cookies deliciously moist.
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the sweet cherries.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips for a rich, decadent twist that balances the sweetness perfectly.
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Peppermint Surprise: Incorporate crushed candy canes for a festive kick! The minty flavor complements the cherry beautifully, making them perfect for holiday treats.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy undertone that contrasts nicely with the sweet cherries.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to enjoy these delicious cookies without gluten worries! They will still be chewy and delightful.
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Fruity Fusion: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or chopped strawberries for a fruity twist that’s equally vibrant and tasty.
For even more cookie inspiration, check out these delightful recipes: Festive Cookies Sweet and Crunchy Sugar Cookies. Enjoy the magic of customization, and let your baking creativity shine!
How to Store and Freeze Maraschino Cherry Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Maraschino Cherry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, store in the fridge to extend freshness, but be aware that this may slightly alter the cookie’s texture. Consume within 7 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Warm frozen cookies in the microwave for about 20 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their soft, chewy goodness.
What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Cookies?
There’s something magical about pairing these colorful cookies with delightful sides that elevate your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream beautifully complements the chewy sweetness of the cookies, creating a symphony of flavors. Imagine each bite melting together, giving you a chill and warmth all at once.
- Hot Chocolate: A warm, decadent mug of hot chocolate adds a comforting touch to the cherry cookies, making for an indulgent treat on chilly nights. The chocolate’s richness blends perfectly with the fruity bursts of cherry.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings a light and tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. The bright colors of mixed fruits reflect the vibrant cherries, making your dessert table visually stunning!
- Lemonade: The tartness of freshly squeezed lemonade cuts through the sweetness, offering a zesty balance to these cookies. It’s a bright, invigorating drink that pairs well with any sweet treat.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies before serving. This adds richness and a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: This bubbly option refreshes your palate between cookie bites. The citrus notes from lime elevate the cherry flavor, making it a delicious and refreshing pairing.
- Coconut Macarons: Another sweet treat, these light and chewy cookies provide a different texture while still allowing you to indulge your sweet tooth. Their hint of coconut complements the maraschino cherries wonderfully.
- Cheesecake: A rich slice of cheesecake with a berry compote can elevate your dessert game to gourmet status. The creamy texture and fruity flavors create a decadent experience alongside the cookies.
- Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea offer a cozy complement to the sweet flavors of the cookies, perfect for a comforting afternoon snack. The aromatic spices create a delightful harmony with the cherry notes.
- Peanut Butter Cookies: For those who love nutty flavors, serving peanut butter cookies alongside adds a savory element to balance out the sweetness. It’s a fun and nostalgic pairing that will leave everyone wanting more!
Make Ahead Options
These Maraschino Cherry Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing the dough tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and proceed with the flattening and baking steps. Alternatively, you can shape the cookies and freeze them on a baking sheet for up to 3 months. Just place the frozen dough balls in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time. This way, you’ll have fresh, delicious Maraschino Cherry Cookies at a moment’s notice!
Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best maraschino cherries for my cookies?
Absolutely! Look for maraschino cherries that are bright red and firm, without any dark spots or mushy textures. They should have a sweet flavor and be well-drained. If you’re using them for baking, make sure to drain them thoroughly, as excess moisture can alter the cookie’s texture.
What is the best way to store Maraschino Cherry Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your Maraschino Cherry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This way, they will retain their delightful chewiness. If you live in a particularly humid environment, consider refrigerating them, but consume them within 7 days for the best taste and texture.
Can I freeze Maraschino Cherry Cookies?
Definitely! To freeze your cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your Maraschino Cherry Cookies are dry, it could be due to overmixing the dough after adding the flour. Be sure to mix just until combined. Another tip is to check that your butter is adequately melted and that your baking time is closely monitored—baking them just until the edges are golden can help keep them soft and chewy.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe contains common allergens, such as gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter), and egg. If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute with gluten-free flour blends, use a vegan butter substitute, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Always ensure your add-ins, like chocolates or candies, are allergy-friendly as well!
Maraschino Cherry Cookies: Bright, Chewy Delights for All
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe dish, checking frequently until fully melted.
- Mix 1/2 cup of white sugar and 1/4 cup of brown sugar into the melted butter until creamy.
- Beat in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Whisk together 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
- Fold in drained and sliced maraschino cherries.
- Shape the dough into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each dough ball slightly for even baking.
- Bake for 12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
